Krampus

The Krampus is a Germanic folk lore character found in tales during the Christmas Holidays. One of Saint Nicholas's companions, the Krampus's features include horns, long dark hair on its body, and a large used to kidnap and punish children who have been naughty. The Krampus serves as an inspiration for a traditional parade in multiple eastern european countries called Krampuslauf, meaning the Krampus run, as well as in seasonal greeting cards[1].

The Krampus is used as a didactic tale to warn children against misbehaving. While the creature's true origins are uncertain, it is agreed by most that the Krampus has roots in germanic folk tales in the alpine regions. Some even believe that these roots can be traced further back to Germanic Paganism, referencing the creature as the son of Hel in Norse mythology[2]. However, most commonly, the Krampus is viewed as one of the companions of Saint Nicholas, and is often perceived as his evil counter part. While Saint Nicholas would reward nice children with presents, the Krampus would steal naughty children away in its sack. The creature would then carry the children away to his lair and feast upon them as his christmas dinner[1].

The characteristics of the Krampus are very similar to those of greek and christian figures, most notably, the satyrs and fauns in greek mythology and the demons of the Christian religion[2]. These features include horns, claws, cloved hooves, and long dark brown or black hair covering its body. Some stories also involve the Krampus using a stick or chain to beat its victims[1].

There have been movements that have acted to ban or discourage the portrayal of the Krampus. Specifically, the Catholic Church has spoken against the image of the krampus for it's demonic characteristics and pagan ties. Another effort to suppress the creature included the Austrian government prohibiting Krampus traditions in 1934[1]. However, there has been a recent rejuvenation of interest in the creature, with Krampusnacht and Krampuslauf returning in many countries.

On December 6th, known as Krampusnacht (or Krampus night), people dress as the Krampus, and run through the darken streets, scaring children along the way. Inspired by a 1500 year old pagan ritual, this event is usually accompanied by heavy drinking, especially a liquor known as Krampus schnapps[3]. Recently cities in the U.S. have started their own Krampuslauf traditions as well[4].

The Krampuskarten is a tradtional greeting card given during the holiday season. These cards usually featured the Krampus in the act of kidnapping a child, with some including funny poems or stories[5]. While older Krampuskartens depict a more menacing version of the Krampus, modern versions portray the creature as cute and more family friendly[1].